Farmhouse Dining Table

Getting Started

Select boards that are straight. Tip: Pretend the board is an arrow on a bow and look down the length of the board to see if it is straight. Tip: For added character, select boards that are rustic in nature with imperfections, cracks and knots. To save time, have the hardware store cut boards as directed in the cut list. Work on a clean level surface large enough for the project, and always wear safety glasses and ensure proper ventilation when painting.

Build Frame

Measure and mark all joints using a carpenter's square. Predrill pilot holes for all joints. Fasten the apron ends to the apron sides with two-inch wood screws and glue. Fasten joist to apron sides with two-inch wood screws and glue. Check corners for square using carpenter's square.

Build the Table Frame

Center Tabletop Boards

Flip tabletop frame over so joists are flush with top of table. Mark center of apron ends and joists, 18 inches from outside of side aprons. Apply glue to table frame. Lay two tabletop boards on top of table and line up with center of table frame. Screw down ends to apron ends with two-inch wood screws. Tip: Measure out screw holes to create a uniform pattern.

Attach Center Tabletop Boards

Attach Tabletop Board Ends

Apply glue to exposed tabletop frame and lay remaining tabletop boards on frame. Line up ends with center tabletop boards. Screw only ends to end aprons.

End Tabletop Boards

Attach Joists

Flip table over. Screw joists to tabletop boards with two-inch screws. Use two screws per joist per tabletop board.

Attach Joists to Tabletop Boards

Attach Table Legs

Attach legs to inside of table frame with two-inch screws. Attach from the outside of the side apron with two-inch screws. Tip: Omit glue to keep table legs removable for easy storage and moving.